Frequently Asked Questions
Find the most frequently asked questions below.
1. Is acupuncture right for me?
Many people come to our clinic looking for natural support for pain, stress, sleep problems, mobility issues, fatigue, and overall wellness. During your consultation, Dr. Lee will discuss your health concerns and determine whether acupuncture may be a good fit for your individual needs and goals.
2. I've never had acupuncture before. What should I expect?
You're not alone—many of our patients are new to acupuncture. During your first visit, Dr. Lee will review your health history, discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Treatments are designed to be comfortable, relaxing, and tailored to your needs.
3. Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients are surprised by how gentle acupuncture feels. The needles used are extremely thin—much finer than those used for injections.
Many people feel little to nothing when the needles are inserted, while others may experience a brief sensation of heaviness, warmth, or tingling.
Many patients become so relaxed that they fall asleep during treatment.
4. How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture involves the placement of very fine needles at specific points on the body. Research suggests that acupuncture may help support healthy nervous system function, improve circulation, promote relaxation, and encourage the body's natural healing responses. These effects may contribute to improvements in pain, stress, sleep, and overall well-being ++
5. What conditions can acupuncture help support?
We commonly work with patients experiencing:
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Neck and back pain
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Shoulder and knee pain
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Arthritis and joint discomfort
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Stress and tension
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Sleep difficulties
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Fatigue and low energy
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Digestive concerns
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Headaches and migraines
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Women's health concerns
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Healthy aging and wellness goals
Acupuncture is used by many people as part of a comprehensive approach to improving overall health and quality of life.
6. How many treatments will I need?
Every person is different. The number of treatments depends on your health concerns, how long you've experienced them, and your wellness goals.
Dr. Lee will discuss a personalized treatment plan and recommend an appropriate treatment schedule during your consultation.
7. How will I feel after a treatment?
Many patients report feeling deeply relaxed after treatment—what some affectionately call an "acupuncture high." Depending on your individual situation, you may also notice reduced tension, improved sleep, increased energy, or temporary fatigue as your body responds to treatment.
Results vary from person to person.
8. Is acupuncture safe?
When performed by a licensed and properly trained practitioner, acupuncture is considered very safe. The FDA regulates acupuncture needles as medical devices and requires them to be sterile, non-toxic, and intended for single use. At PureMe Acupuncture Wellness Center, all treatments are provided using sterile, single-use needles and professional standards of care.
9. Can I receive acupuncture during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
In many cases, yes. Acupuncture is commonly used during pregnancy to help support comfort and well-being, including concerns such as nausea, back discomfort, stress, and sleep challenges. It may also provide support during the postpartum period. Please discuss your specific situation with Dr. Lee during your consultation.
10. Do you use herbal medicine?
Yes. When appropriate, Dr. Lee may recommend herbal medicine as part of your treatment plan. Herbal recommendations are individualized and based on your unique health concerns, constitution, and wellness goals.
11. What is cupping therapy?
Cupping therapy uses gentle suction to create negative pressure on the skin and underlying tissues. It is commonly used to help increase circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. Many patients describe it as feeling like a reverse massage.
12. Can acupuncture help support healthy aging?
Many patients include acupuncture as part of their healthy aging routine. Acupuncture may help support mobility, recovery, sleep quality, stress management, energy levels, and overall well-being, helping people remain active and independent as they age.
13. What makes Dr. Lee's approach different?
With more than 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Lee Byung-Moon combines traditional East Asian medicine with a personalized, patient-centered approach. His goal is to help patients find relief from current concerns while supporting long-term health, resilience, and healthy aging.
14. What is Traditional East Asian Medicine ?
Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM) is a comprehensive system of healthcare that has been practiced for thousands of years. It includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping therapy, and lifestyle recommendations. TEAM views the body as an interconnected system and focuses on addressing underlying imbalances while supporting the body's natural ability to heal and maintain wellness.
++ References
1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH).
Acupuncture: What You Need To Know.NCCIH Acupuncture Overview
2. Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Lewith G, et al.
Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis.Journal of Pain. 2018;19(5):455-474.
3. Langevin HM, Wayne PM, Macpherson H, et al.
Paradoxes in Acupuncture Research: Strategies for Moving Forward. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2011.